Purpose of the Job
The Shared Anti-Fraud Service (SAFS) provides a prevention and investigation resource to a number of partner councils and stakeholders in areas of both external and internal fraud including staff disciplinary cases. The Service works for a number of different clients/partners across Hertfordshire and wider.
The Senior Fraud Investigator role exists to undertake investigations in relation to non-benefit and corporate fraud in a proportionate, efficient and effective manner, in compliance with all required procedures and legislative requirements.
Source of knowledge, advice and consultation for fraud investigators, support CFM in management of fraud investigation team and workload review.
Monitor progress of investigations
Ensure quality of reports that are sent to external partners
Provide regular updates to senior management team on case load and work pressures
Take on more complex investigations that may not be suited to L9 or L10 investigator
Support HR in disciplinary investigations for internal cases
Responsible for maintaining relationship with partner councils
To identify savings and additional income as a result of counter fraud work, and secure the best outcome so that the clients' resources are used effectively and efficiently ensuring value for money.
Main Areas of Responsibility
- To undertake formal tape-recorded interviews under caution with suspects and witnesses in accordance with current legislation and Codes of Practice.
- To conduct witness interviews and take statements in accordance with current legislation and Codes of Practice.
- To undertake static and/or mobile surveillance as required, utilising covert equipment where appropriate, in accordance with current legislation and Codes of Practice.
- To undertake unscheduled visits in line with guidelines where it is considered necessary to complete a full and proper assessment of the case. To undertake visits and out of office working as required in accordance with procedures.
- To gather, record and securely retain evidence relating to an investigation in accordance with current legislation and Codes of Practice.
- To maintain to a high standard a record of each investigation, and produce appropriate and timely reports as appropriate.
- To recommend which cases are appropriate for prosecution and ensure the necessary supporting documentation is prepared in accordance with legislative requirements and when required represent the Council at Court.
- To maintain an up-to-date working knowledge of criminal and civil law, legal requirements, criminal investigation procedures, criminal prosecution, court procedures and client disciplinary procedures as appropriate.
- To initiate and maintain liaison with police and other law enforcement agencies, other external agencies, legal departments and prosecuting Counsel where appropriate
- To be responsible for preparing the appropriate and necessary paperwork to assist internal and external agencies undertaking prosecutions.
- To be committed to and take responsibility for personal continuing professional development.
- To have responsibility for investigating on own initiative complex, larger and more serious fraud cases bringing them to conclusion in a timely manner.
- To have responsibility for identifying and putting in place partnership working opportunities with other Local Authorities arising from such fraud cases.
- To demonstrate a pro-active awareness of developments and changes in legislation for implementation and feedback to team members.
- To participate in the pro-active and preventative work of the Shared Anti-Fraud Service, by undertaking activity to raise awareness of fraud, train employees and managers in fraud risk areas and advise on solutions and improvements.
- To have responsibility for staff supervision, acting as a mentor, supervising and supporting new team members using set procedures, guidelines and use of computer systems.
- To review working practices and the quality of service provided and develop proposals for the introduction of new procedures.
- To serve summonses, attend court, give evidence, attend disciplinary boards, review boards or appeal tribunals, all as appropriate and necessary.
- To represent the service at meeting with other departments and services.
- Any other duties as may be directed by departmental management provided they fall within the scope and range indicated by the grade of the post
- To be responsible for all data quality emanating from the Anti-Fraud team ensuring that all statistical information is submitted accurately and within specified time limits.
- To assist in the development and delivery of pro-active anti-fraud activity, and to participate in training and awareness activities
- To advise and liaise with Senior Managers and Members on the requirements of various laws, regulations and legislation relating to investigations.
- To demonstrate a pro-active awareness of developments in the investigation domain including awareness of best practice and provide written reports on projects to implement change.
- Where appropriate and duly authorised, take the lead on submission of cases to the prosecuting authorities, liaising with legal services, legal Counsel, police and the CPS as required and appearing as lead case officer for Council.
- To assist junior officers in progression of cases and in interview and sanction proceedings
- To represent the Service on Service issues involving members of the public, external agencies and other Council departments, including any necessary correspondence, interviews, or meetings.
- To respond to enquiries from elected Members as required, and undertake correspondence relating to the work of the section, including complaints, Ombudsman's enquiries, legal actions and the council's duties.
Person Specification
Qualifications:
- Be educated to A Level or equivalent
- Have recognised accredited counter fraud qualification or professional Diploma in Investigation Management.
- Be a member of the Government Counter Fraud Profession.
Guidant, Carbon60, Lorien & SRG - The Impellam Group Portfolio are acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.
